Relationships within families are complicated at the best of times. But when things break down irreparably, it can be both distressing and difficult to find a solution that works for everyone.
Though there’s a temptation to implore ‘compromise’ and ‘listening’ and file this article for publication, in the real world, such platitudes don’t always resolve deep seated disputes.
Particularly where children are involved, a family law solicitor can help tackle these situations with a cool head and a good dose of clarity, providing a safe space to come to a legal agreement, and ultimately, helping your family to get through this difficult time.
If you have never had to access the services provided by a family law solicitor before but have now found yourself in a situation where you may need their help, then you’re probably wondering just what services one can provide. Today, Carole Nettleton helps explain what services a family law solicitor can provide.
FIRSTLY, WHAT EXACTLY IS A FAMILY LAW SOLICITOR?
Firstly, let’s define the term ‘family law solicitor’.
Following any legal proceedings and going through the legal framework of the family courts in the UK can be very complicated for anybody who is not experienced or educated in this area, and this is where such a solicitor comes in.
A family law solicitor is a trained individual who has the relevant knowledge and qualifications to guide families and couples through legal proceedings involving matters of the family.
They will offer you a safe and formal setting to do this, keeping everything which is said recorded but confidential whilst working to achieve a desirable outcome for both parties. If you have found yourself in such a scenario, reaching out to a family law solicitor could well be the right thing to do.
SO, WHAT SERVICES DOES A FAMILY LAW SOLICITOR OFFER?
Divorce
Without doubt, the complexities which come with filing for divorce are sure to confuse anyone without necessary qualifications and background. A family law solicitor, with the relevant knowledge and experience of family law and court proceedings, will be able to guide you through the process.
They will defend your rights as an individual and represent your best interests. This will include your rights to a fair share of your assets, property and for the important arrangements for children. The legal process is complex, finding a family law solicitor who will support you is the best decision.
Dissolution
The steps to a dissolution of a civil partnership are very similar to that of a divorce. Therefore, the advice of a family law solicitor is just as useful in this situation. Providing a formal setting where the guidance of the law can be explained, and a result can be achieved for both parties.
International Divorce
An international divorce can be logistically challenging. This could involve parties to a marriage of whom have links to another country. Whether this is through birth or residential status, at the time of divorce.
Many family lawyers, such as Jennifer Croker, highlight that the legal process of an international divorce can be dramatically different, depending upon which country or countries are involved, when giving advice to their clients.
The legal support of a family law solicitor will be able to navigate the rules and decide which country should be most appropriate for the divorce proceedings, whilst helping you achieve the best financial outcome, too. Such expert legal advice can also help you manage contact with your children, even from a distance.
Child Arrangements
When it comes to the arrangements for children, the approach must be sensitive and as least distressing as possible. Choosing to go through this process with a professional in an informal setting may be best for your children.
A family law solicitor will be able to offer their best advice and support you in finding the most appropriate arrangements for your children, whilst keeping their best interests in mind.
Cohabitation
For unmarried and cohabitating couples, the law is rather different. This doesn’t mean however, that the guidance of a family law solicitor will not help in the event of a relationship breakdown. Unmarried couples, just like legally married couples, will have likely purchased property together, had children, pooled together to build a family home and life.
If this comes to an end, a family law solicitor can navigate areas of the law which will be necessary to your situation. This could include helping understand property law and the Children Act of 1989 for the financial provision of children.
*This article is not intended to replace legal advice. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any legal enquiries, always consult a solicitor or other registered, qualified legal professional first*